Ministers and US Ambassador to attend launch of Pfizer and Biovac partnership to manufacture life-saving vaccine locally
The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, will on 3 November, announce a new partnership with the private sector to strengthen South Africa's ability to locally manufacture a life-saving pneumococcal vaccine for children.
The Minister of Health, Aaron Motsoaledi will join the Minister at the announcement of the partnership between government, the Biovac Institute and the American drug company, Pfizer, which will see the manufacture of the vaccine to immunise children against pneumococcal infections and pneumonia.
The partnership will also will involve the transfer of skills and technology to South Africa, growing the country's vaccine production base.
The United States Ambassador to South Africa, Patrick Gaspard, Pfizer's Country Manager, Jennifer Power, and Biovac CEO, Dr Morena Makhoana, will also attend.
NB: A limited number journalists will have the opportunity to tour the vaccine development facility.
Media are invited to the event, which is scheduled as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 3 November
Time: 8h30 for 9h00
Venue: Biovac facilities in Alexandra Road, Pinelands
To confirm your attendance, please contact Veronica Mohapeloa at 082 882 3818, or David Mandaha at 072 126 8910
Enquiries:
Lunga Ngqengelele
Cell: 082 566 0446
